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Sandy, gravel-filled soil, while providing well-drained, healthy conditions for some plant life, poses difficulties for grass growth. Grass typically requires a high level of moisture to remain lush and vigorous, and neither sand nor gravel retain water well. Moisture runs through these soil types faster than others, and the frequent watering they require also tends to wash away nutrients. Regular amendments to sand or gravel conditions can improve soil retention and allow drought-tolerant grass varieties to flourish.

1

Prepare the soil for planting by tilling deeply, removing all weeds and rocks from the area.

2

Improve the soil's moisture retention with a mixture of compost or peat and loamy topsoil. Spread 2 inches of the mixture over the ground and work it 6 inches deep into the soil with a rake.

3

Spread slow-release fertilizer over the top of the soil. Fertilize lightly once each month during the growing season, at a yearly total of 5 pounds per 1000 square feet. Do not over-fertilize, as the chemicals may seep through the sand or gravel and into the water table.

4

Choose a grass type that thrives in sand, such as a fescue variety, bermuda grass or sand bluestem grass. Purchase the grass in seed or sod form.

5

Sow seed grass over a lawn area by feeding it into a rolling broadcast spreader. Spread chopped straw or grass clippings over the top to help hold in moisture, and water the seeded ground frequently to keep the soil moist enough for germination. For sod grass, lay it down over the yard and press it flat with a sod roller.

6

Water new grass daily, unless heavy rainfall is frequent. Once grass has become established, water it every 3 days.

7

Amend the soil with compost every 3 months during the growing season, raking it across the lawn.

Things You Will Need

Tiller

Compost or peat

Loamy topsoil

Rake

Seed or sod

Spreader or sod roller

Tip

Cut the lawn high to lessen the possibility of moisture loss through evaporation.

Warning

Never amend sandy soil with clay, as grass will struggle to grow in such a hard soil consistency.

About the Author

A writer with a Bachelor of Science in English and secondary education, but also an interest in all things beautiful, Melissa J. Bell has handed out beauty and fashion advice since she could talk -- and for the last six years, write for online publications like Daily Glow and SheBudgets.